Friday Public Program

Complimentary Public Programs on the first Friday of the month in the Gillespie County Historical Society Sanctuary. Programs will include guest speakers, special collections pieces, temporary exhibits, book signings and more.

Schuetzenfest in Gillespie County.

Schuetzenfest is the second-longest tradition in Gillespie County. The event is a long-range shooting contest, featuring around 100 shooters from five different clubs. Participants shoot 200 yards, using open sights and long-barreled guns known as Schuetzen rifles. Three shooting contests are held each year- a benefit shoot in April, the Vorfest in late July, and the two-day Schuetzenfest around the full moon in August. Participants take practice shots throughout the day, followed by six to 10 prize shots to crown the Schüetzenkönig orSchüetzenkönigin.

As part of the Friday Public Program, the event will feature several traditions that are part of the Schuetzenfest. Attendees will begin the program by tapping a beer keg. Representatives from the five clubs will process in carrying flags while music is played from Bill Smallwood. An introduction to the program will be given by Schueztenfest participants McKenzie Moellering and Regina Weidenfeller. Myra Klinsek will give a presentation on the history of the event and changes over the years. Demonstrations and artifacts will be shared, followed by an example of the raising of the king and a Prost!

Live stream available.

Historical Society Sanctuary

312 W. San Antonio Street

Doors open at 3 p.m.

Program at 3:30 p.m. followed by Q&A

Closing at 5 p.m.